Diverse|City
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Stand on the side of love, equality | Support gay marriage
January 23rd, 2012 at Mon, 23rd, 2012 at 12:32 pm by Gabrielle Nomura
Today, Sen. Mary Margaret Haugen’s announcement of her support of marriage equality in Washington State was cause for cheer among the members of Washington United for Marriage, a coalition of organizations, congregations, unions and business associations.
The bills, SB 6239 and HB 2516 are being heard in senate and house committees today, Monday, Jan. 23.
“We’ve known for a long time that our stories are powerful, and sharing those stories can change hearts and minds,” said Lacey All, Chair for Washington United for Marriage. “Hundreds of constituents shared their stories of love, commitment and family with Sen. Haugen, and in doing so, convinced her that she was doing the right thing for Washington.”
Haugen made her stance on the legislation known following a two hour Senate Committee on Government Operations, Tribal Relations and Elections heard testimony for and against the bill. With Haugen’s support, advocates now have enough votes to pass the legislation through both the house and senate. Gov. Chris Gregoire is a strong supporter of the legislation and has indicated she will sign the bill.
Washington United for Marriage is a coalition of organizations, congregations, unions, and business associations working together to secure civil marriage for loving, committed gay and lesbian couples. To find more information and learn how you can help, visit WashingtonUnitedForMarriage.org. Engage with Washington United for Marriage on social media at Twitter.com/WA4Marriage and at Facebook.com/WashingtonUnited.
Gabrielle Nomura is a journalist with a multicultural background, a passion for diversity stories and insight into dance, theater, opera and music. Her articles appear in Bellevue Reporter, NW Asian Weekly, The Bellingham Herald and the blog, Seattle Dances. Follow on Twitter: @GabrielleKazuko.
More articles by Gabrielle Nomura >
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